Will Still has agreed a deal with Southampton to become the club’s new manager, talkSPORT understands.
Still could be in the stands on Sunday for Saints’ final game of the season after landing a three-year contract at St Mary’s.
3
Simon Rusk has been in temporary charge of Southampton since April, following the departure of Ivan Juric.
It is the second time Rusk has taken an interim role this season, after the sacking of Russell Martin in December.
Still, who led Lens to an eighth place finish in Ligue 1, left the French club last weekend, saying he wants to be closer to his partner Emma Saunders.
Sky Sports presenter Saunders has been battling a number of health issues over the last year.
She was being treated for thyroid cancer and is also recovering from a brain infection called encephalitis.
He said: “I won’t be the coach of RC Lens next season.
“It was the last season at Bollaert, for multiple reasons.
“The main reason that pushed me to make this decision is the fact that I need to go home.
“Everyone is well aware of what happened in my life. That’s why.
“I had a lot of fun, I think we achieved great things despite everything. I’ve been in France for four years, four years that I’ve experienced intense moments.
3
3
“The logical choice is that I get closer to my wife for her well-being too.”
Saunders attended Lens’ final game of the Ligue 1 season, which they won 4-0 against Monaco.
She shared a picture of her and Still on the pitch after full time.
Fans have previously shown their support for Saunders with a banner that read ‘Courage Emma et Will’.
Still will return to England and could immediately take the job with the south coast club, who will be playing in the Championship next term.
The Saints crashed back down to the Championship, having taken just 12 points in 36 games this season.
Southampton round off their dismal Premier League campaign at home to Arsenal.
The club were also looking at Sheffield Wednesday boss Danny Rohl but compensation was believed to be an issue.
Still made a name for himself as Reims manager when he was just 30 years of age.
He did not even have his UEFA pro licence, which cost the club £22,000 per match.
